German word

behindern

Pronunciation

IPA/bəˈhɪndɐn/

Meaning

  • verbhinder

Example

Der Regen behindert den Verkehr.

The rain is hindering traffic.

Illustration for behindern (hinder)

More examples

Die Bürokratie behindert oft die schnelle Umsetzung neuer Projekte.

Bureaucracy often hinders the rapid implementation of new projects.

Core concept

Traffic, progress, or another activity moves forward but is held back by an interfering obstacle.

Common phrases

  • den Fortschritt behindern

    hinder progress

  • die Entwicklung behindern

    hinder development

Similar words

stören: To disrupt concentration or interrupt the smooth flow of work.
hindern: To block an action or process from being carried out.
erschweren: To make progress or completion more difficult, requiring extra time or effort.
verhindern: To prevent an event or action from happening at all.

Definition in German

eine Person, ein Ereignis oder eine Sache so beeinflussen, dass deren Fortgang erschwert, verzögert oder teilweise blockiert wird

Word origin

The verb developed from hindern, related to the Germanic word for 'behind', with be- forming a transitive verb for causing obstruction.

Usage tips

  • Behindern is stronger and more specific than stoeren, which commonly means disturbing or annoying without necessarily blocking progress.

Other meanings

  • obstructverb
  • impedeverb

Opposites

Related words

Word lists with this word